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The conversion by a sensory receptor of any of a number of different forms of energy into nerve impulses or action potentials. Touch receptors supply kinetic energy; photoreceptors, light; auditory receptors, sound; temperature receptors, heat; olfactory and taste receptors, energy from chemical reactions; and electroreceptors in some species of fish, electrical energy. See also transducer. [From sensory + Latin transducere to lead across, from trans across + ducere, ductum to lead + -ion indicating an action, process, or state]